Ingredients

For the Salmon

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each), skin-on or skinless
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

For the Maple Sesame Glaze

• ¼ cup pure maple syrup
• 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• 2 teaspoons rice vinegar
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish or rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil for easy cleanup.

Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides lightly with salt and black pepper.

Step 2: Make the Maple Sesame Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, Dijon mustard, and red pepper flakes until well combined.

In a separate small bowl, stir together the cornstarch and water to make a slurry. Add it to the glaze and whisk until smooth. This will help create a glossy, lightly thickened sauce as the salmon bakes.

Step 3: Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in the prepared baking dish and pour about two-thirds of the glaze over them, making sure each fillet is evenly coated.

Let the salmon marinate for 10–15 minutes while the oven finishes preheating. Reserve the remaining glaze for brushing during baking and serving.

Step 4: Bake the Salmon

Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets.

Halfway through cooking, brush the salmon with some of the reserved glaze to build a rich, caramelized coating. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Step 5: Finish the Glaze

While the salmon bakes, pour the remaining glaze into a small saucepan.

Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until slightly thickened and glossy. Remove from the heat.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the baked salmon to a serving platter. Spoon the warm glaze over each fillet, then sprinkle generously with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions.

Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges, if desired.

Tips for the Best Maple Sesame Salmon

• Use fresh, high-quality salmon for the best flavor and texture.
• Pat the salmon dry before seasoning to help the glaze adhere better.
• Do not overcook the salmon, as it can become dry.
• Toast the sesame seeds before garnishing for a richer, nuttier flavor.
• Fresh ginger and garlic provide the most vibrant taste.
• Use pure maple syrup instead of pancake syrup for authentic sweetness.
• Line the baking pan with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
• Brush the salmon with extra glaze during baking for a beautifully caramelized finish.

Delicious Variations

Spicy Maple Sesame Salmon

Increase the red pepper flakes or add a teaspoon of sriracha to the glaze for a spicy kick.

Honey Sesame Salmon

Replace the maple syrup with honey for a slightly different sweetness and flavor profile.

Air Fryer Maple Sesame Salmon

Cook the glazed salmon in a preheated air fryer at 390°F (199°C) for 8–10 minutes, depending on thickness.

Grilled Maple Sesame Salmon

Grill the salmon over medium-high heat for 4–5 minutes per side, brushing with glaze as it cooks.

Citrus Maple Salmon

Add the zest and juice of one orange or lime to the glaze for a bright, refreshing twist.

Garlic Lover’s Version

Double the amount of garlic in the glaze for an even bolder savory flavor.

Storage

Allow the salmon to cool completely before storing.

Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a 300°F (150°C) oven or in a covered skillet over low heat until warmed through.

The cooked salmon can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

This Easy Maple Sesame Salmon pairs wonderfully with:

• Steamed jasmine or brown rice
• Garlic butter rice
• Quinoa
• Stir-fried vegetables
• Roasted broccoli
• Sesame green beans
• Sautéed bok choy
• Cucumber salad
• Asian slaw
• Rice noodles

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 390
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fat: 21g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 520mg
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: 2.2g
• Calcium: 4% DV
• Iron: 8% DV
• Potassium: 720mg